A drug dealer who was snared by security staff at a Preston city centre venue has been jailed.

Security staff at Preston Guild Hall clocked Michael Baxendale dealing tablets and white powder during an event in April this year.

Preston Police were called and the 28-year-old of Devonshire Road, Atherton, Manchester, was arrested.

The door staff spotted Baxendale acting suspiciously during the music event and after searching him they found 30 snap bags containing cocaine, MDMA and cannabis.

He pleaded guilty to supplying a controlled Class A drug, possession with intent to supply a controlled Class A drug and offering to supply a controlled Class B drug.

Read more: Preston drugs baron jailed for running heroin and cocaine gang

Baxendale was sentenced to five years in prison following a hearing at Preston Crown Court on Wednesday (24 October).

What police had to say

Detective Constable Lewis Haigh of Preston CID said: “This a fantastic result and testament to the efforts of security staff at the Guild Hall and our officers in securing a lengthy prison sentence.

“Two security staff spotted Baxendale carrying cash and a bag of white powder. A further search found tablets and more bags of white powder. On the way to custody, Baxendale attempted to conceal drugs from his shoe but was spotted by police.

“Baxendale took 140 pills to the venue that evening. Each tablet could have potentially been harmful to anyone who had contact with them.

“We have investigated a number of serious injuries as a result of drugs used on nights out in Preston during the last 12 months and welcome this sentence and the message it sends.

“Furthermore I would like to praise the great work of door staff at the Guild who clearly take the safety of their patrons seriously.”